If I want to enter the TVS One Make Championship 2026 in Chennai, should I focus on weight reduction or cornering speed during selection trials?

Learn whether weight reduction or cornering speed matters more for TVS One Make Championship 2026 selection trials in Chennai, with practical tips to improve your chances.

Racesforall

2/5/20261 min read

The TVS One Make Championship selection trials are extremely competitive. Riders often ask:

Should I focus more on weight reduction or cornering speed to improve my chances of selection?

The short answer: Cornering speed matters more than body weight—but both have roles. Let’s break it down.

How Selection Trials Are Evaluated

During TVS One Make Championship selection trials, evaluators typically look for:

  • Consistent lap times

  • Smooth riding technique

  • Confidence through corners

  • Good braking control

  • Coachability

Raw straight-line speed or low body weight alone rarely wins selection.

Why Cornering Speed Is More Important

Most lap time is gained or lost in corners, not on straights.

Riders who demonstrate:

  • High mid-corner speed

  • Stable braking into corners

  • Smooth throttle pickup

stand out immediately.

Even if two riders have similar straight-line speed, the one who carries more speed through corners will be faster and more consistent.

What “Good Cornering Speed” Really Means

It’s not about reckless leaning.

It means:

  • Correct racing lines

  • Late apex where required

  • Smooth trail braking

  • Proper body position

  • Eyes focused on corner exit

Selectors look for control, not heroics.

The Reality About Weight Reduction

Being extremely light offers only a small advantage.

Typical differences:

  • A 5–10 kg weight difference may gain only a few tenths per lap

  • Poor cornering technique can cost seconds per lap

Extreme dieting or dehydration before trials can also hurt concentration and stamina.

Healthy Weight Optimization

If needed:

  • Improve body composition gradually

  • Increase strength-to-weight ratio

  • Build core and leg strength

Fitness helps consistency far more than chasing an unrealistic number on the scale.

What You Should Prioritise Before Trials

  1. Track time and coaching

  2. Cornering technique

  3. Braking control

  4. Consistency over multiple laps

  5. Basic fitness

Simple Rule

Cornering skill > Technique > Consistency > Fitness > Body weight

Weight matters only after the technique is solid.

Final Verdict

If you want to enter the TVS One Make Championship 2026 in Chennai, focus primarily on cornering speed and riding technique. Optimize weight sensibly, but never at the cost of strength, focus, or health.

Selectors choose riders who look fast, smooth, and safe—not just light.